Do You Have to Pay A Real Estate Agent if You Decide Not to Buy or Sell A House?

Imagine this: You’ve been working with a real estate agent for weeks, maybe even months, looking for the perfect home or trying to get yours sold. But then, life happens—you change your mind about selling, or you find yourself not ready to make a purchase just yet. Now you’re left wondering: Do you still have to pay your agent even though the deal didn’t go through? The National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) introduced new regulations on how real estate agents disclose their fees. These rules, effective as of August 17th, 2024, aim to make real estate fees more transparent and competitive. In this Redfin article, we’ll dive into what happens when plans change and whether or not you owe your agent a fee if you decide not to buy or sell a house after all.New rules around agent fees and agreementsIn light of recent changes from NAR and MLS, real estate agents must now disclose their fees more transparently before working with clients. At Redfin, agents require that a fee agreement be signed before the first home tour to ensure that buyers know exactly how much they might owe if they choose to work with the agent. However, it’s important to note that this agreement doesn’t obligate clients to complete the purchase or to stick with the agent if plans change.These updated rules are designed to protect buyers and sellers by ensuring they are aware of any potential costs upfront, even if they ultimately decide not to proceed with the transaction.Do you have to pay your agent if you don’t buy a home?Typically, real estate agents are compensated through a commission at closing, so if you don’t purchase a home, you generally won’t owe them a commission. However, the exact terms depend on your contract with the agent. It’s crucial to carefully read and understand your agreement to know any potential financial obligations you might have, even if you do not complete a purchase.Do you have to pay your agent if your home doesn’t sell? Probably not, but read your contract carefully. Real estate agents are typically paid when you sell your home, so if your home doesn’t sell, you shouldn’t owe them a commission. Redfin does not charge a seller if their home does not sell, but agents at other brokerages may have different policies. You should read the fine print. Generally, your contract with your agent is bound to a certain time period. Unless your contract says otherwise, you are typically not required to pay your selling agent if the contract expires and your home doesn’t sell.Potential fees at other brokerages: what to watch forAt other brokerages, fee structures and agreements can vary significantly. Some brokerages may include clauses in their buyer or seller agreements that require you to compensate the agent for their time and efforts, even if the transaction doesn’t go through. This could include reimbursement for expenses such as marketing, home tours, or administrative work. Additionally, certain brokerages may lock clients into exclusive contracts, obligating them to use that agent for a set period of time, regardless of whether they ultimately buy or sell a home. It’s crucial to carefully review and fully understand any agreement before signing, as these terms can differ greatly from brokerage to brokerage.How real estate agents get paid if the sale or purchase goes throughYou may be wondering how agents will get paid under the new rules. Real estate agents are typically paid through a commission. Historically, the seller has usually covered the commission for both their agent and the buyer’s agent from the proceeds of the sale. However, as of August 17, 2024, buyers are required to agree to their agent’s fee structure in writing before touring homes. If the sale closes, a buyer’s agent’s commission might be paid out of the final sale price. While buyers can still negotiate for the seller to cover their agent’s fee, the responsibility for these commissions can now vary, depending on the terms of the offer and the negotiation process.Final thoughtsAt Redfin, we believe in transparency and flexibility when it comes to your home-buying or selling journey. If you decide not to move forward with a purchase or sale, we don’t require any payment unless a transaction is successfully completed. While other brokerages may have different policies, Redfin’s approach ensures that you’re never locked into a financial obligation if plans change.The post Do You Have to Pay A Real Estate Agent if You Decide Not to Buy or Sell A House? appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.

How to Write a Lease Agreement: A 14-Step Guide to Writing a Lease

After you’ve found the right tenants for your rental property, you’ll need to offer a lease agreement for them to sign. Writing a lease agreement is a critical step in the rental process, as it allows you to outline the rights, responsibilities, and terms of your tenant’s lease. But, how do you write a lease agreement effectively?In this Redfin article, we’ll cover how to write a lease agreement in 14 steps and why it’s an important document to have. Whether you’re renting your home in Minneapolis or renting your condo in Orlando, read on to find out the steps for writing a lease agreement. What is a lease agreement?A lease agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the terms of your tenant’s lease. It includes the monthly rental payments, lease duration, rules, and additional regulations (ex. no-smoking areas, quiet areas, whether pets are allowed, and notice of entry). Lease agreements cover all the expectations for you and your renter, which can help prevent issues down the line. 1. Fill out each party’s informationFirst, you’ll need to add the following information to the document – name, phone number, email address, and physical address. You’ll need this information for yourself, any co-owners of the property, all tenants included on the lease, and any property managers. If there are any additional people living on the property who aren’t paying rent, you need to include them as well.2. Add description of property/unitWhen writing a lease, you need to have a description of the property or unit that you’re leasing. Whether you’re leasing a single-family home or a multifamily unit, the information you add will be similar. Here’s what you need:Property’s addressIf the home is part of an HOAAny existing issues or damage to the propertyItems like appliances, furniture, and decor that remain in the homeAny appliances listed in the property description are your responsibility, meaning you’ll need to arrange repairs or maintenance. 3. List out all utilities and additional servicesThe next section should include all utilities and additional services, and who is responsible for paying. Examples include:ElectricityNatural gas (if applicable)Heating and cooling (HVAC)Water and sewerTrash removalSome other services include internet, landscaping, and pool maintenance. However, there may be additional services that are not listed above that you need to include. You should specify which, if any, utilities are included in the rent price. If no utilities are included, list out where and how your tenant will need to pay for these services. ridvan_celik via Getty Images4. Include lease duration and typeThe lease agreement will also include the type of lease and the lease duration. There are two types of leases: fixed-term or month-to-month. A fixed-term lease has a set end date, most often 12 months. A month-to-month lease automatically renews at the end of each month, unless a tenant gives notice to vacate or you give renters proper notice that the lease is ending. 5. Detail monthly rental costsYou’ll want to outline the monthly rent costs your tenant will pay. This should include when rent is due, how you’ll receive the payment (online, in-person check, or bank transfer), and any late fees incurred. If your home is part of a HOA (Homeowners Association), you’ll need to include who pays for HOA fees and when they’re due. 6. Note penalties for non-payment and rule violationsMake sure to include a section that details the penalties for late rent payments. List out how much late fees are and whether there are additional penalties for late or non-payments. Additionally, this section can include whether there are penalties for rule violations. An example would be if your tenant brings a pet onto the property without notifying you. You may require them to pay an additional fee.7. Itemize additional feesIn the next section, include any additional fees that your tenant is responsible for paying. These fees will vary depending on the property. Here are some examples:Security deposit: List out how much the security deposit is, the timeframe for your tenant to receive the security deposit back, and what the security deposit covers. There are laws surrounding the use of a security deposit, so familiarize yourself with local and state laws. Monthly pet fees: Depending on your policies, your tenant may need to pay a monthly pet fee. Insufficient funds/non-sufficient funds fee: This fee is commonly attached if your tenant’s bank account doesn’t have enough funds to pay rent. Additional fees: If you haven’t already outlined fees regarding late payments, utilities, landscaping, etc, then now is the time to add them in. Should there be any fees that aren’t listed above, make sure to include them.8. Include rights and responsibilities for both partiesYou and your renter have certain rights and responsibilities that both parties must agree to and follow during the lease term. You’ll need to outline these rights and responsibilities to the lease agreement. Below you’ll find examples of some responsibilities for each party.Renter responsibilities:Adhering to rules listed in the lease agreementNotifying the landlord or property manager of needed repairsKeeping the home clean, sanitary, and safeSetting up utilities before the move-in dateUsing the home as a residential property, not a commercial propertyOnly occupying the home with tenants on the leaseNot disturbing other tenants (if applicable)Landlord responsibilities:Providing proper notice of entry (at least 24 hours in most areas)Not entering the property without notice, unless in an emergencyCompleting required repairs in a timely mannerMaintaining the home and surrounding propertyProviding any utilities listed in the leaseNot disrupting the renter’s “right to quiet enjoyment”There are plenty of other renters rights that you should familiarize yourself with as you’re writing the lease agreement. 9. Outline subletting and occupancy rulesThere are many property owners who don’t allow subletting for a variety of reasons. If you don’t want your tenant subletting their unit without permission or listing it on a vacation rental site, outline it in the lease. Additionally, consider adding any additional occupancy rules regarding guests staying on the property. You don’t want one of your tenants’ guests moving in for months without paying rent. It can also be a liability issue. 10. Highlight lease termination and eviction policiesWhile you probably don’t want to think about having to evict a future tenant, it’s important to include the reasons why you may need to in the lease. You need to follow the law and include the legal reasons for evicting a tenant or terminating a lease early. Some legal reasons are:You’re selling the propertyYour tenant has violated the lease terms or is behind on rentYour tenant has committed illegal activities on the propertyAdditionally, you need to include the penalties if your tenant breaks the lease early. There are some legal reasons that they can. However, if a tenant simply decides to end the lease early and move somewhere else, you’ll need a plan in place. Some penalties include forfeiture of the security deposit and paying the rest of the lease term.11. Include a section for renters insuranceMost properties require renters insurance, a type of insurance purchased by the renter that covers their belongings. It’s separate from the homeowners insurance you’re already paying. If renters insurance is something you want your tenant to have, include that in the lease. You may also require a minimum amount of insurance coverage, which should be listed as well. 12. List out property rulesIt’s likely that you’ll have specific rules for your property that you’ll want to list out in the lease agreement. Some rules you may include are:HOA rules: If your home is in an HOA, there are likely rules that your tenant will need to abide by. This could be regarding exterior maintenance, lawn decor, holiday decorations, and parking. Pets: If you allow pets as part of the lease, you’ll want to list out specifics. For example, include how many pets are allowed, if there is a pet deposit and how much, and whether there is a monthly fee for pets. Smoking: It’s common practice to prohibit smoking on rental property, as it can cause damage to the home.Quiet hours: Depending on the city and neighborhood your home is in, there may be quiet hour restrictions. Include any noise restrictions in this section.Written consent rules: Outline the rules that may need written consent from you before completing. For example, you may request written consent if your tenant wants to paint the walls in the home.Safety precautions: These rules typically cover weight limitations for balconies, fire and electricity precautions, and prohibiting certain flammable materials. Maintenance: This section includes who is responsible for certain maintenance, like mowing the lawn, snow removal, and cleaning the gutter.Keys: This section lists the options for your tenants if they lose their keys or need to have the property re-keyed.13. Include disclosure attachmentsThere are several disclosure attachments you need to include in a lease. Some may even be required by local or state laws. Two common disclosures are lead paint and mold disclosures. 14. Add a section for signaturesThe final section you’ll need to write into the lease agreement is a section for signatures. This page should have enough space for the tenants and you to sign. Make sure to include a space to note the date. Why do you need a lease agreement?There are plenty of reasons why a lease agreement is a great idea when renting out your home. Should you have any issues with your tenant, you can refer back to the lease to enforce any rules. Management of issuesShould there be any issues between you and your tenant – unauthorized pets, late rent payments, etc – the lease can help you manage the situation. Additionally, there are landlord-tenant rules you need to follow, such as proper notice of entry and timely repairs. If you’re not following these rules, your tenant can point out what is listed in the lease to remind you of the agreements you’ve signed. Following local lawsHaving a lease agreement helps you follow local laws and ensure that you’re doing things correctly. For example, you can’t raise rent in the middle of a lease and most areas require a certain notice period for raising any rent costs. Having this outlined in the lease agreement sets expectations for you and your tenant.Use of security depositYour lease agreement helps outline your rights to use a security deposit when your tenant moves out. It will include how much the security deposit is and when your tenant needs to pay it. You’ll need to include what a security deposit can be used for – covering unpaid rent, expensive damages, etc – and what “normal wear and tear” looks like. Make sure to include how you’ll return the security deposit to your tenant if there are no issues. Review any local or state laws to understand how long you have to return a security deposit. Protection for you and the tenantSince a lease agreement is legally binding, it serves as protection for you and your tenants. For example, if there’s a dispute between you and your renter, referring to the lease can help avoid any further conflict. Should there be an issue where one party sues the other, the lease agreement outlines who is responsible. The post How to Write a Lease Agreement: A 14-Step Guide to Writing a Lease appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.

13 Bucket List Activities in Bend, OR: Discovering Oregon’s Playground

Bend, OR is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and vibrant culture—but there are some must-do bucket list activities in Bend that even locals might find surprising. So whether you’re looking to buy a house in Bend, OR,  interested in renting an apartment in the area, or have your eyes on a rental home, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love exploring this city. In this article, we dive beyond the usual spots you would expect to find in Bend and uncover some unique things to do that will leave you eager to explore new adventures you may not even know exist. Keep reading to discover activities unique to Bend and hopefully cross some off your bucket list.1. Discover timeless charm at Trivia AntiquesLooking for unique beauty and style that can only be found in an antique store? Trivia Antiques is your answer; not only have they been in the business for the past 40 years—they are one of only two antique stores left in Bend. If you’re in need of some lasting pieces stop by the store where their friendly staff will help you find your treasures. 2. Grab chic finds at Found Natural Goods Supporting local artists and small businesses is crucial for keeping a town thriving. Found Natural Goods—is a local boutique that features handmade, up-cycled, VNTG, zero-waste, and organic goods. With items from over eighty American female artists and businesses, this establishment will inspire you and leave you impressed by the pieces and their impact.3. Hand-curated goods at Revival VintageVoted Best Vintage Clothing in Central Oregon by Source Weekly readers, ’20-’23 Revival Vintage—is a must-visit stop. Located off Galveston behind 10 Barrel and Namaspa Yoga, Revival specializes in clothing and housewares for women, men, and kids. They’ve got all the fringe, leather, sequins, pearlsnaps, boots, fur, kimonos, kaftans, flannels, denim, and corduroy your heart desires, with some home decor to boot. 4. Sparkle with Saxon’s Fine Jewelers In the heart of the stunning Old Mill District, a must-visit is a local staple for over 40 years—Saxon’S Fine Jewelers. As a proud supporter of the community, Saxon’s has Central Oregon’s premiere selection of beautiful jewels sourced from all over the world. If you find yourself in the Old Mill District, grabbing a bit to eat, taking a stroll through the park, or just visiting one of the many attractions, make sure to swing by Saxon’s because there are some pretty spectacular things you’ll only find there.5. Get creative at Let’s Paint If you want to express yourself more creatively through parties, classes, murals, and more, look no further than Let’s Paint. Join one of the many paint n’ sip parties at one of the charming locally owned businesses. Modern Games, Craft Kitchen & Brewery, and The Bend Wine Bar, each with a unique character that make you feel special and connected to the community. The class paintings are inspired by the beauty of natural surroundings that you can proudly hang in your new home in Bend. Supporting local businesses while recreating the stunning outdoors creates a perfect blend of art and nature.6. Scale new heights at Smith Rock Climbing SchoolCliff Agocs from Smith Rock Climbing School insists that “no trip to Bend is complete without a visit to Smith Rock State Park. Famous for its incredible rock climbing—the park also offers incredible views for hikers and photographers. Visitors can also count on wildlife sightings—from nesting eagles and falcons to river otters and deers. Whether you plan on staying for as little as an hour and as long as a couple of days with a night of camping, the trip is worthwhile.” If you’re looking for a break from the usual outdoor activities, this bucket list activity is a must-do. 7. Must-do outdoor experiences “No matter the season, you can always find a fun outdoor activity to do” explains Christina Cappy from Bend Language Institute. “With endless trails in quiet, old growth forests, you will be so enamored that you will never want to go any place else.”Enjoy hiking, biking, or floating “Bend is a fantastic mountain town, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, or floating down the Deschutes River,” explains Glenn VanLandingham from the local blog EpicBend. “For a simple yet stunning hike near Bend, a visit to Tumalo Falls located about 25 minutes west of downtown Bend is a must. You can admire the beautiful falls with just a short walk from the parking area. For an even better view, you can hike 0.5 miles to the top of the falls. More experienced hikers can use the Tumalo Falls trailhead for longer hikes into the Three Sisters Wilderness.”Explore diverse landscapesJess Yeoman from Cascade Relays emphasizes that “Bend’s unique location offers a breathtaking blend of high desert, volcanic craters, and stunning alpine lakes. You’re not going to want to miss hiking the Big Butte Challenge, which encourages the community to explore this diverse landscape and rewards them with pints at some of Bend’s best local breweries afterward. It’s a great place to live to to tap into new areas, take those summit selfies, and soak up the afternoon high desert sunshine at the brew pubs, where many locals gather.”Exhilarating ride guidesOne activity that will get your heart rate up is joining riders alike at Dirty Freehub—a non profit that connects cyclists to where they ride. The site has over 12,000 miles of curated gravel biking ride guides across the Western US, with plenty of local rides to start with here in Bend. Check out each guide before riding to better understand the history, culture and environment and to get a feel for your new home and the outdoor recreation opportunities the area has to offer. The ultimate rafting experienceCrowned by Trip Advisor as the top outdoor activity in Bend, Sun Country Tours’ Big Eddy Thriller Rafting trip is a local favorite among all ages. The three-hour door-to-door trip takes you to Bend’s classic class three rapids on the beautiful Upper Deschutes River. The expert guides will educate you on the basics of rafting, local wildlife, and geology throughout the trip and provide swimming opportunities for those eager to take a dip. Make a splash If you want to savor the last bit of summer, Tule Walks photographer Ginger Berryman recommends “heading up the Cascade Lakes Highway with your paddleboard in hand and enjoy the water. Some top lakes to visit are Sparks and Hosmer. Also, don’t miss the incredible mountain vistas and excellent wildlife viewing, especially if you love birds.”8. Sip, toast, repeat In historic downtown Bend, The Wine Shop And Tasting Bar is a unique international wine shop that is locally owned and operated. It features a variety of top wines from around the world, small-batch spirits, and beer from Spider City Brewing. You can also enjoy small bites like bacon-wrapped dates or a charcuterie board. This wine shop is perfect for a date night or hanging out with friends.If you love Willamette Valley wines, Bend offers some excellent tasting rooms where you can savor high-quality wines from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. To enjoy organic selections, check out Bend Wine Bar & Tasting Room to enjoy wines from the organic Black Dog Vineyard. For lesser known varieties like Chasselas Doré—head to Laurel Ridge to taste and learn about Yamhill-Carlton’s history. These wine tasting rooms are the perfect place to start your night—enjoy a tasting flight before dinner or a show.9. In a theater near you Jesse Hastings from BlueJay Photography suggests checking out Tin Pan Theater, a local arthouse cinema. “This charming and immersive venue offers a curated selection of films, tasty craft beers, seasonal art exhibits, and a cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed night out,” says Hastings. “Tin Pan Theater is situated in the heart of Downtown Bend, so you’ll be surrounded by top restaurants, bars, and shopping, and just steps away from scenic Drake Park, where you might catch some free live music along the Deschutes River.”10. Explore the foodie’s paradise Whether you’re looking for a place to gather with new friends or wanting to try some of Bend’s best food and drink, The Grove is your one stop shop for a truly Bend experience. Located in Northwest Crossing, The Grove is home to nine locally owned restaurants in one indoor/outdoor marketplace. 11. Hit your fitness goals If you’re looking to gear up physically, mentally, and emotionally to maximize your Bend experience, Foundation Health & Fitness center has you covered. This fitness and wellness center has all your training needs, modalities, and experiences to help you upgrade your capacities and “Do Bend Better” along your fitness journey.12. Unlock the power of networking Connect with like minded individuals and support a thriving local economy through networking. Economic Development of Central Oregon (EDCO) and Redmond Economic Development Inc. (REDI) organize regular networking events to connect businesses with the resources they need to grow and thrive, including the annual Bend Venture Conference, the largest and longest-standing angel investment conference in the Pacific Northwest.13. A mystic escape    Experience an unmatched wellness experience with Juniper Preserve. Not only is this a hub offering various activities such as full service spas, upscale lodging accommodations at Juniper Lodge, they also have an amazing new restaurant experience, Iris and Blue Bar. Located in the newly renovated Clubhouse, Iris and Blue Bar offers a memorable dining experience in a secluded setting with stunning mountain views that pay homage to Bend’s local community by highlighting the partnerships to local farmers and purveyors. Bucket List Activities in Bend, OR: Final thoughtsKimberly Handley from Fratzke Commercial Real Estate sums it up best. “Bend is home to several charming boutiques, galleries, and eateries, making it a must-visit for any traveler,” shares Handley. “Wander through its tree-lined streets and discover locally-crafted treasures, from unique jewelry to artisanal chocolates, all while soaking in the area’s rich history and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re savoring a pint at a brewery or enjoying a stroll through parks, Bend promises an unforgettable experience. ” We hope this article gives you some great bucket list activities in Bend that you can cross off your list. Life in Bend not only promises unforgettable moments but also gives you the opportunity to embrace the natural beauty, vibrant community, and boundless opportunities for adventure in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.The post 13 Bucket List Activities in Bend, OR: Discovering Oregon’s Playground appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.

South Carolina Real Estate Commissions: What You Can Expect in 2024

When buying or selling a home in South Carolina, it’s essential to understand real estate commissions for accurate budgeting and smoother negotiations. In 2024, new rules have shifted how real estate commissions are communicated nationwide, offering greater transparency for both buyers and sellers. These updates aim to help people make more informed choices when dealing with real estate fees.Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced seller, this Redfin guide will walk you through South Carolina’s real estate commissions and what to anticipate in today’s market.Current state of the South Carolina housing marketBefore we jump into real estate commissions in South Carolina, let’s first examine the state’s housing market.Median Home Sale Price$382,300Housing Supply31,748 (+17.8% YoY)Homes Sold Above List Price14.2% (-5.1 pts YoY)Understanding real estate commissions in South CarolinaWhat are real estate commissions?Real estate commissions are the fees paid by homebuyers or sellers to their agents for helping facilitate a successful property transaction. These fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the home’s sale price and are paid at closing.Who pays the commission?Traditionally, sellers would cover both their own agent’s commission and the buyer’s agent’s fees from the sale proceeds. However, as of August 17, 2024, buyers must now agree to their agent’s fee in writing before they start touring homes.Although buyers can still request that the seller cover their agent’s commission during the offer process, this change makes the amount the seller pays for the buyer’s agent flexible, and is entirely negotiable.Average real estate commission rates in South CarolinaReal estate commission rates in South Carolina can fluctuate depending on the specifics of the transaction and the agreements made between the parties involved. While general expectations exist for commission rates, they are fully negotiable, allowing buyers and sellers to work with their agents to tailor the commission structure to their needs.Factors like the property’s location, current market conditions, and the level of service offered by the agent can all affect the final commission. This flexibility provides room for both parties to negotiate fees that align with their budget and goals. Below is a breakdown of sample commission rates based on the median home prices in some of South Carolina’s major cities.CityMedian Home Sale Price1.5% Real Estate Commission3% Real Estate Commission5% Real Estate CommissionCharleston$578,250$8,674$17,348$28,913Columbia$266,000$3,990$7,980$13,300North Charleston$381,400$5,721$11,442$19,070At Redfin, we’re focused on offering consumers the best possible value. To support this, we provide sellers with a listing fee that starts as low as 1%.* For buyers, our fees vary by location but remain competitive, helping your offer stand out and improving your chances of success in the home-buying process.Can you negotiate real estate commissions in South Carolina? Yes, you can! There are no laws in the U.S. that set commission rates, so agents may be open to negotiating lower fees based on the type of transaction, the services required, and the relationship with the client.When negotiating commissions, it’s essential to consider the agent’s level of service, the marketing strategies they’ll employ, and their local market experience. Sellers might be able to negotiate a lower rate if their property is highly desirable or expected to sell quickly. Additionally, in a dual agency situation where one agent represents both buyer and seller, there may be room for a further reduction in commission fees since no second agent is involved.Tips for a successful negotiationCompare multiple agents and their commission structures before making a decision.Consider performance-based incentives, like offering a higher commission for a faster sale or a better final price.If your property is in a desirable location, use this to your advantage, as agents might agree to a lower commission.South Carolina real estate commission FAQsWhat are the changes to real estate commission? Two major changes have reshaped how commissions are handled. First, buyers must now agree to their agent’s fees in writing before touring homes. Second, the way these fees are displayed has shifted, and in many markets, agent compensation is no longer listed on MLS postings. Learn more about the real estate commission changes here. How do the changes impact buyers in South Carolina? Buyers are now required to sign an agreement with their agent detailing the commission rate before they begin touring homes. However, you can still request that the seller cover your agent’s commission as part of your offer.How do the changes impact sellers in South Carolina? Sellers will still discuss with their listing agent the compensation they want to offer the buyer’s agent, if any. Any buyer requests will be reviewed, and the seller can negotiate the terms as part of the offer.How do you find a real estate agent in South Carolina? If you’re ready to start your home search or sell your property, Redfin is here to help. Connect with a Redfin agent today.How can you avoid fees? Selling a home without an agent in South Carolina can save on commission fees, but handling a for sale by owner (FSBO) transaction requires the seller to take on responsibilities like marketing, showings, and paperwork. *Listing fee subject to change, minimums apply. Any buyer’s agent fee the seller chooses to cover not included. Listing fee increased by 1% of sale price if buyer is unrepresented. Sell for a 1% listing fee only if you also buy with Redfin within 365 days of closing on your Redfin listing. We will charge a 1.5% listing fee, then send you a check for the 0.5% difference after you buy your next home with us. Learn more here.The post South Carolina Real Estate Commissions: What You Can Expect in 2024 appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.